Best Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mowers for 2025: Top Picks and Reviews

A well-manicured lawn is the pride of any homeowner, but maintaining it can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. Fortunately, zero-turn riding lawnmowers can make lawn care a breeze. These machines are designed to navigate tight spaces and cut grass with precision, making them ideal for homeowners with large or complex lawns.

When shopping for a zero-turn riding lawn mower, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll want to think about the size of your lawn and the amount of horsepower you'll need to get the job done efficiently. You'll also want to consider the cutting width of the mower deck, as well as the durability of the blades, and the overall build quality of the machine.

After researching and testing multiple models, we've identified the best zero-turn riding lawnmowers for 2024. Whether you're a seasoned lawn care pro or a first-time homeowner, our top picks will help you keep your lawn looking its best with minimal effort.

Best Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mowers

If you're looking for a powerful and efficient way to maintain your lawn, a zero-turn riding lawn mower may be just what you need. These machines are designed to make mowing faster and easier, with their ability to turn on a dime and cover large areas quickly. In this article, we've compiled a list of the best zero-turn riding lawn mowers for 2024. Whether you're a professional landscaper or a homeowner looking for a top-quality mower, you're sure to find a great option on our list.

Husqvarna Z254F 54 in. 23 HP Kawasaki Zero Hydrostatic Turn Riding Mower

If you're looking for a powerful zero-turn riding lawn mower, the Husqvarna Z254F is a great choice. With a 23 HP engine and a 54-inch cutting deck, this mower can handle even the largest lawns with ease. The ClearCut deck design provides superior airflow and high-performance blades for a better bagging experience. The ergonomic control panel and anti-slip foot area make mowing intuitive and safe.

Pros

• The 23 HP Kawasaki engine provides reliable startups and a max speed of 6.5 MPH, making it easy to tackle large lawns quickly.

• The hydrostatic, no-maintenance transmission is worry-free and can handle a variety of cutting conditions with ease.

• The ClearCut deck offers a best-in-class 54-inch cut and better bagging thanks to its deep deck design, superior airflow, and high-performance blades.

Cons

• The mower is quite heavy at 595 pounds, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

• The price point may be a bit high for some consumers.

   

If you're looking for a powerful and reliable zero-turn riding lawn mower, the Husqvarna Z254F is a great choice. Its 23 HP engine and 54-inch cutting deck make it easy to tackle even the largest lawns quickly and efficiently. The ClearCut deck design provides superior airflow and high-performance blades for a better bagging experience.

The ergonomic control panel and anti-slip foot area make mowing intuitive and safe. However, the price point may be a bit high for some consumers, and the mower is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, if you're in the market for a high-quality zero-turn riding lawn mower, the Husqvarna Z254F is worth considering.

Husqvarna MZ54F 54 in. 24 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

If you're looking for a zero-turn riding lawn mower that can handle both residential and light professional lawn maintenance, the Husqvarna MZ54F 54 in. 24 HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower is worth considering.

Pros

• The reliable 24 HP Kawasaki engine provides high ground speeds and reliable startups.

• Patent-pending park brake system automatically activates or deactivates as the steering levers are moved outward or inward.

• Best-in-class 54 in. The clear-cut cutting deck offers better bagging thanks to its deep deck design, superior airflow, and high-performance blades.

Cons

• It rides a bit rough, so you may want to add a trac seat for more comfort.

   

The Husqvarna MZ54F is a powerful and reliable zero-turn riding lawn mower that can handle a variety of lawn maintenance tasks. The 24 HP Kawasaki engine provides plenty of power, and the patent-pending park brake system makes it easy to stop and start as needed. The 54 in. The clear-cut cutting deck is one of the best in its class, offering better bagging thanks to its deep deck design, superior airflow, and high-performance blades.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. While the clippings can be discharged, mulched, or bagged with a 9-bushel triple bag collection system, you'll need to purchase the mulching kit and bagger attachment separately. Additionally, some users have reported that the cut quality isn't great, even with a new blade and proper adjustment. Finally, the ride can be a bit rough, so you may want to add a trac seat for more comfort.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and powerful zero-turn riding lawn mower, the Husqvarna MZ54F is worth considering.

Craftsman Riding Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover, Large

If you are looking for a durable and heavy-duty cover for your zero-turn mower, then the Craftsman Riding Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover, Large is a great option.

Pros

• The Craftsman Riding Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover, Large is made of weather-protective fabric that includes water-resistant and repellent finishes. This ensures that your mower is protected from rain, dirt, bird droppings, and tree sap.

• The cover comes with an air vent that allows air to circulate and helps prevent ballooning in winds.

• The Craftsman Riding Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover, Large is designed to fit zero turn mowers with decks up to 60" wide, including Craftsman model Z560.

Cons

• The cover is a tight fit and requires some effort to put on.

Craftsman is a well-known brand that offers high-quality outdoor power equipment covers, and the Craftsman Riding Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover, Large is no exception. This cover is made of durable material that provides excellent protection for your mower.

The weather-protective fabric with water-resistant and repellent finishes ensures that your mower is protected from the elements. The air vent helps prevent ballooning in winds, which is a common problem with other covers.

One downside of this cover is that it is a tight fit and requires some effort to put on. However, once it is on, it will stay in place and provide excellent protection for your mower. Some users have reported that the cover is not completely waterproof, so it may not be suitable for heavy rain.

Overall, if you are looking for a heavy-duty cover for your zero-turn mower, the Craftsman Riding Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover, Large is a great option. It provides excellent protection for your mower and is designed to fit zero-turn mowers with decks up to 60" wide, including Craftsman model Z560.

Husqvarna Z242F 42 in. 21.5HP Kawasaki Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

If you're looking for a zero-turn riding lawn mower that can handle a variety of cutting conditions, the Husqvarna Z242F is worth considering. This mower features a powerful 21.5HP Kawasaki engine, armrests, and headlights, making it a great choice for those who want to get their lawn mowing done quickly and efficiently.

Pros

• The hydrostatic, no-maintenance transmission ensures worry-free operation, allowing the mower to handle a variety of cutting conditions.

• The patent-pending park brake system automatically activates or deactivates as the steering levers are moved outward or inward, making it easy to stop and start the mower as needed.

• The mower can discharge, mulch, or bag clippings (mulching kit and bagger attachment sold separately), giving you the flexibility to choose the method that works best for your lawn.

Cons

• The mower is relatively heavy, weighing in at 551 pounds, which may make it difficult to maneuver for some users.

Overall, the Husqvarna Z242F is a solid choice for those who want a zero-turn riding lawn mower that can handle a variety of cutting conditions. The hydrostatic transmission and park brake system makes it easy to operate, while the ability to discharge, mulch, or bag clippings gives you the flexibility to choose the method that works best for your lawn.

However, the mower's weight and potential steering issues may be a concern for some users, and the additional cost of the mulching kit and bagger attachment should be taken into account when considering this mower.

EGO Power+ZT4204L 42-Inch 56-Volt Lithium-ion Cordless Z6 Zero Turn Riding Mower with (4) 10.0Ah Batteries and Charger Included

If you're looking for a zero-turn riding mower that's like nothing else out there, the EGO Power+ ZT4204L is an excellent option. With Peak Power+ technology and the ability to hold up to six EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries, this mower is the world's first platform-compatible rider.

It delivers 22 horsepower, equivalent to a gas engine, and reaches a top speed of 8 MPH. The Z6 can cover up to 2 acres on a single charge, and its 4 independent brushless motors deliver the power and performance of gas with an adjustable seat suspension for a comfortable mowing experience.

Customize the ride with an LCD interface featuring 3 driving modes: Control, Standard, and Sport – that can be accessed with the simple touch of a finger. Premium features like LED lights, a USB charging port, and Bluetooth come standard to make the experience unlike any other zero-turn mower.

Pros

• Peak Power+ Technology combines the power of up to 6 EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries

• Holds up to 6 batteries for maximum runtime (4 included)

• Power of gas with 22 HP equivalent engine

Cons

• Expensive compared to traditional gas-powered mowers

• Not suitable for large properties due to limited battery life

If you're looking for a zero-turn mower that's easy to use and delivers excellent performance, the EGO Power+ ZT4204L is an excellent choice. It's powered by the same battery technology that powers all EGO products, which means you can use the same batteries for all your outdoor power tools.

With its adjustable seat suspension and customizable driving modes, this mower is comfortable to use and easy to control. However, it is more expensive than traditional gas-powered mowers, and its battery life may not be sufficient for large properties. Additionally, it may not be as durable as gas-powered mowers over the long term.

Husqvarna Z246 (46") 21HP (Husqvarna Engine) Zero Turn Lawn Mower

If you're looking for a zero-turn riding lawn mower that is perfect for smaller properties, the Husqvarna Z246 might be what you need. This mower is equipped with a powerful 21HP Husqvarna engine and EZT transmission, making it a great option for homeowners.

Pros

• The 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck is perfect for smaller properties.

• The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission ensures a smooth ride.

• The 3.5-gallon fuel capacity is perfect for long mowing sessions.

Cons

• The warranty is only 3 years for consumers.

   

The Husqvarna Z246 is a great option for homeowners who want a zero-turn mower that will work well on smaller properties. The 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck is perfect for cutting grass in tight spaces, while the Hydro-Gear EZT transmission ensures a smooth ride. Additionally, the 3.5-gallon fuel capacity means you can mow for longer periods without having to stop and refuel.

However, some customers have reported issues with customer service, so be aware of this before making your purchase. Additionally, the mower is relatively small, so it might not be the best option for larger properties. Finally, while the 3-year consumer warranty is decent, some customers might prefer a longer warranty period.

In conclusion, if you're a homeowner with a smaller property and want a zero-turn mower that is powerful and efficient, the Husqvarna Z246 might be the perfect choice for you.

Viadom Outdoor Zero-Turn Mower Cover

If you're looking for a heavy-duty, waterproof cover for your riding lawn mower or tractor, the Viadom Outdoor Zero-Turn Mower Cover is a great option.

Pros

• The cover is made from high-quality, waterproof material, providing maximum protection for your mower from extreme weather conditions.

• The elastic hem ensures a close fit with your lawn mower, while the tough tightening cord at the bottom allows the cover to be secured to the machine, preventing it from being blown away.

• The cover comes with an adjustable lid to prevent it from being blown away, and an extra practical portable lawn mower storage bag. It can be folded into a small size for your convenience.

Cons

• The cover is only available in black, which may not match the color of your lawn mower or tractor.

• The cover may not fit all types of riding lawnmowers or tractors, so be sure to check the size before purchasing.

• The cover is relatively thin, which may not provide as much protection as thicker covers.

   

Overall, if you're looking for an affordable, waterproof cover for your riding lawn mower or tractor, the Viadom Outdoor Zero-Turn Mower Cover is a great option. It provides excellent protection from extreme weather conditions and comes with a practical storage bag for easy transportation and storage.

Husqvarna Z254 54 in. 26 HP Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower

If you're looking for a powerful and reliable zero-turn mower, the Husqvarna Z254 is a great choice. With its 26 HP Kohler engine, reinforced steel cutting deck, and innovative features, this mower makes lawn maintenance a breeze.

Pros

• The 26 HP Kohler engine provides reliable startups and a max speed of 6.5 MPH.

• The patent-pending park brake system automatically activates or deactivates as the steering levers are moved outward or inward.

• The air induction mowing technology draws air from the top and bottom of the deck, improving grass and delivering a superior cut.

Cons

• The mower is heavy and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

• The seat could be more comfortable for extended use.

The Husqvarna Z254 is a great choice for anyone who wants a powerful and reliable zero-turn mower. With its innovative features and cutting-edge design, this mower makes lawn maintenance easier and more enjoyable than ever before.

The 26 HP Kohler engine provides plenty of power for even the toughest jobs, while the reinforced steel cutting deck ensures maximum durability and performance. The patent-pending park brake system is a nice touch, making it easy to stop and start the mower as needed.

One of the standout features of the Husqvarna Z254 is the air induction mowing technology, which draws air from the top and bottom of the deck to improve grass and deliver a superior cut. This is a great feature for anyone who wants a lawn that looks great all season long.

While there are a few cons to consider, such as the need to purchase a mulching kit or bagger attachment separately, the overall performance and reliability of this mower make it a great choice for anyone who wants a top-of-the-line zero-turn mower.

Husqvarna Z254F Zero Turn Lawn Mower with LED Headlights

If you want a reliable zero-turn mower that can handle large lawns, the Husqvarna Z254F is a great choice.

Pros

• The 24HP/726cc Kawasaki engine provides ample power to handle challenging mowing conditions.

• The 54-inch fabricated, 3-blade mower deck cuts grass evenly and efficiently.

• The Hydro-Gear Hydrostatic ZT-2200 transmission allows for smooth and effortless operation.

Cons

• The 3.5-gallon fuel capacity may not be sufficient for larger lawns.

• The mower is quite heavy and may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

The Husqvarna Z254F is a high-quality zero-turn mower designed to last. The automatic park brake system is a unique feature that adds an extra layer of safety and convenience. The LED headlights are also a nice touch, making it easy to mow your lawn even in low-light conditions.

In terms of performance, the Kawasaki engine delivers ample power to tackle even the most challenging mowing conditions. The ClearCut fabricated cutting deck is also a standout feature, providing a precise and even cut every time. The Hydrostatic ZT-2200 transmission is another highlight, allowing for smooth and effortless operation.

One potential downside of the Husqvarna Z254F is its fuel capacity. With only 3.5 gallons, you may need to refuel more frequently if you have a larger lawn. The mower is also quite heavy, which may make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Overall, the Husqvarna Z254F is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a zero-turn mower. While it may be on the pricier side, its high-quality construction and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who takes lawn care seriously.

Ariens IKON (52") 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower 918005

If you're looking for a zero-turn riding lawn mower that is easy to maneuver and has a powerful engine, the Ariens IKON (52") 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower 918005 might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The hydro-gear EZT transmission makes it easy to control the mower's speed and direction.

• The 52-inch, 3-blade fabricated deck ensures that you can mow your lawn quickly and efficiently.

• The 23 HP Kawasaki FR691V Twin Engine provides plenty of power to handle even the toughest mowing jobs.

Cons

• The mower does not come with a bagger, which may be a drawback for those who prefer to collect their grass clippings.

If you're looking for a zero-turn riding lawn mower that can handle large lawns and tough mowing jobs, the Ariens IKON (52") 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower 918005 is worth considering. The hydro-gear EZT transmission makes it easy to control the mower's speed and direction, while the 52-inch, 3-blade fabricated deck ensures that you can mow your lawn quickly and efficiently.

The 23 HP Kawasaki FR691V Twin Engine provides plenty of power to handle even the toughest mowing jobs.

However, there are a few drawbacks to this mower. First, it is quite heavy, weighing in at 908 pounds, which can make it difficult to transport. Second, the mower's top speed is only seven mph, which may not be fast enough for some users. Finally, the mower does not come with a bagger, which may be a drawback for those who prefer to collect their grass clippings.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality zero-turn riding lawn mower that can handle even the toughest mowing jobs, the Ariens IKON (52") 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower 918005 is worth considering.

Buying Guide

When searching for the best zero-turn riding lawn mower, several key factors should be considered. Here are some features you should look for to ensure you get the best product for your needs.

Cutting Width

The cutting width of a zero-turn mower determines how much grass it can cut in one pass. A wider cutting width means you can mow your lawn more quickly, but it may also mean a larger and more expensive mower. Consider the size of your lawn and how much time you're willing to spend mowing when choosing a cutting width.

Engine Power

The engine power determines how quickly and efficiently the mower can cut through thick grass. A more powerful engine will be able to handle tougher jobs, but it will also consume more fuel and may be more expensive. Consider the size and terrain of your lawn when choosing an engine power.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Since you'll be spending a lot of time on your mower, it's important to choose one that is comfortable to use. Look for features such as adjustable seats, armrests, and ergonomic controls to ensure a comfortable and efficient mowing experience.

Durability and Warranty

A zero-turn mower is a significant investment, so it's essential to choose one that's built to last. Look for mowers with durable frames, high-quality components, and a strong warranty to ensure you get the most value for your money.

By considering these factors, you can select the ideal zero-turn riding lawn mower for your needs and enjoy a beautiful lawn with less time and effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated commercial zero-turn mowers for 2024?

When it comes to commercial zero-turn mowers, there are several top-rated brands to choose from. Some of the best commercial zero-turn mowers for 2024 include the Scag Cheetah II, the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series, and the Ferris ISX 3300.

Which zero-turn mowers offer the smoothest ride for residential use?

If you're looking for a zero-turn mower that offers a smooth ride for residential use, consider the Husqvarna Z254F, the Ariens IKON XD 52, or the John Deere Z535M. These mowers are designed with features such as suspension systems and ergonomic seats to provide a comfortable ride.

What features distinguish the best zero-turn mowers for large properties, such as 5 acres?

When it comes to large properties, the best zero-turn mowers should have a wide cutting deck, a powerful engine, and a comfortable seat. Some top-rated zero-turn mowers for large properties include the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1, the Toro TimeCutter HD, and the Bad Boy Maverick.

When is the ideal time of year to purchase a zero-turn mower for the upcoming season?

The best time to purchase a zero-turn mower is typically in the fall or winter when dealers offer discounts and promotions to make room for new inventory. This gives you plenty of time to prepare for the upcoming mowing season.

How do Kubota zero-turn mowers compare to other leading brands in 2024?

Kubota zero-turn mowers are known for their durability and reliability. They are comparable to other leading brands, such as John Deere and Toro, in terms of quality and performance. However, Kubota mowers may be more expensive than other brands.

What are the advantages of choosing a zero-turn mower with a fabricated deck?

A zero-turn mower with a fabricated deck is typically more durable and resistant to damage than a stamped deck. Fabricated decks are also better at handling rough terrain and thick grass. However, they may be more expensive than stamped decks.